Small plates

Small plates are a type of food service that focuses on serving small portions of food, typically designed for sharing. This style of dining is popular in many cultures around the world and is often associated with tapas, a Spanish tradition of serving small dishes with drinks.

History

The concept of small plates has its roots in many different cultures. In Spain, the tradition of serving tapas with drinks has been a part of the culture for centuries. In other parts of the world, similar traditions exist, such as the Italian antipasto, the Greek meze, and the Middle Eastern mezze.

Characteristics

Small plates are typically smaller than a traditional main course, but larger than an appetizer. They are designed to be shared among a group, allowing diners to sample a variety of dishes in a single meal. This style of dining encourages social interaction and can lead to a more relaxed and convivial dining experience.

Small plates can include a wide variety of foods, from meats and cheeses to vegetables and seafood. They can be served hot or cold, and may be accompanied by bread or other side dishes.

Popularity

The popularity of small plates has grown in recent years, particularly in the United States and Europe. Many restaurants now offer small plate menus, and the concept has also become popular in home entertaining. The trend towards smaller, shared dishes reflects a broader shift in dining habits, with many people now preferring to sample a variety of foods rather than committing to a single main course.

See also

• Tapas
• Antipasto
• Meze
• Mezze
• Food service